Your Childcare Questions Answered

Making the decision to have a child is only the beginning. From that point forward life as you know it will change in ways you never thought possible. Issues you may have never considered will now take foremost thought in your decision making skills.

Will you feed your child organic food? Will television corrupt your little toddler? One of the most important decisions, that unfortunately some may have no choice in making, is whether or not to enroll their young child in a childcare program.

I only want part-time childcare, is this a problem?

Many childcare facilities offer part-time time slots. The charges are usually either set off as per hour or per four hour block. If you are looking for daycare only a few days of week, many can work that into their schedule.

There are childcare centers that do not allow for part-time due to the overwhelming demand for their available slots. There are alternatives such as churches and babysitters. You can always check references and ask around about programs for parents that just need an occasional break.

Is there a learning plan for my child?

Whether or not there is a lesson plan for your child all depends on who is taking care of him or her. A licensed daycare or pre-school will usually have a lesson plan that teaches your child the fundamentals necessary before they enter school.

A pre-school is set up with the mindset that children must have fundamental preparation if they are to meet the rigorous standards set in our education system. If you are choosing a childcare center for this reason, you need to review what the teachers will utilize in their instruction. Higher priced facilities may offer foreign language, computers and even martial arts as part of their standard curriculum.

How many children should there be per teacher?

Each state is different when it comes to laws regulating daycares and babysitters. The ratio used is based on the child's age. For example: most daycares require one teacher per four to six infants. This helps ensure that each child is cared for properly.

What types of laws regulate childcare facilities?

The Department of Human Services for each state regulates childcare establishments. They set forth the rules governing licensing, sanitation and feeding guidelines.

DHS is also covers any issues that arise with the facility such as complaints or reports of abuse. The laws for each state vary so it is important to know your state guidelines when you are searching for a daycare or seek to operate one.

If I suspect child abuse, what do I need to do?

You should immediately contact the proper authorities. The Department of Human Services has a hotline to report suspected child abuse. If you are employed by a childcare facility and suspect a student of being abused, immediately notify your supervisor and then call the authorities.

If you suspect that no one is taking action, call DHS and ask to speak to a case worker. Continue through the chain of command until action has been taken to investigate the issue.

If you feel that the local office is not doing an adequate job, contact your local law enforcement authority. If you are the parent of a child and you suspect the childcare center of abuse, do not hesitate to withdraw your child. A child's safety is far more important than offending a daycare teacher or owner.